Digestive changes can be common after your cancer treatment. These changes don’t just happen overnight, but they may happen due to the rough cancer treatment you just went through. The strong medications and changes in your diet can affect your appetite, comfort, and energy levels. Even though these changes are frustrating, you can still control them with a little care.
Why does constipation happen after your treatment?
There can be many different factors involved during your treatment that may lead to digestive discomfort. The painkillers or strong opioid medicines you took during your treatment can also slow down your bowel movements. Also, the chemotherapy drugs you take can interfere with your digestive function. Your low physical activity and dehydration can slow down your digestion and cause constipation.
Why do some patients experience diarrhea?
There can be times when you might experience diarrhea instead of constipation. This can happen as chemotherapy and radiation therapy can irritate the linings of your digestive tract. Your treatment may also affect the way your intestine absorbs water and nutrients. This is what brings an imbalance to your healthy gut bacteria, leading to improper bowel movements.
Symptoms you shouldn’t ignore
Digestive problems are common after your treatment. But if the discomfort in your gut began to affect your routine for a long time, then you need to seek medical help.
Intense stomach pain or cramping.
Blood in your stool, very dark stools.
Constant constipation that doesn’t heal with time.
Dehydration or very low urine output.
Weakness or inability to eat or drink properly.
Tips to manage your bowel movements
Simple and consistent efforts can really help you manage your stomach discomfort.
Drink enough fluids, specifically hot fluids, to support digestion.
Follow a low-fiber diet.
Eat balanced and light meals for easy digestion.
Stay physically active with gentle movements.
Always follow medical advice before taking any anti-diarrheal medicines.
Track your bowel changes and report them to your doctors on time.
Relaxing your gut
Constipation and diarrhea can feel like another challenge when you’ve already gone through a rough cancer treatment. But with a little care and paying attention to your body, you can manage your discomfort. With time, you will eventually recover and can get your life back.